Sinatra-style singer coming to Magnolia Hall

He’s not a former member of the Rat Pack, but this 37-year-old singer from Logan, W.Va., has the style and spot-on voice of Ol’ Blue Eyes.

By channeling Frank Sinatra, one of his most admired singers, Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. went from being an attendant at a car wash in West Virginia to performing at the Coliseum Theatre at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas after he won the sixth season of America’s Got Talent in September.

“I’ve always believed I was made for the entertainment world,” he said. “It took me a while to get here, but God has his time for everything. I’m 37…and I’m living my dream.”

On Monday, Sun City residents can get a front-row seat to this 21st-century crooner. Murphy will perform two shows at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Magnolia Hall. Tickets for both shows are available at Lifestyle Services in Pinckney Hall.

“We are so excited to bring this talented artist to our very own Magnolia Hall,” said Lifestyle Services Director Jackie Bates. “Landau is so reminiscent of Frank Sinatra and that era of music Sun City residents remember so well. I know they will get a kick out of him.”

Murphy said he is excited to come to the Lowcountry, too. His audience can expect an interactive show with songs from his debut CD That’s Life, a “Sinatra standard” album with his own twist. Songs like “Kick in the Head,” “That’s Life” and “Fly Me to the Moon” will bring back memories to Monday’s concert-goers.

“That’s what I really get out of it. [Performing is like] going out there and singing for your friends. I feel that when I’m out there or no matter where I’m at,” Murphy said. “I’ll give them [the songs] they love. I’m pretty sure they are going to enjoy it.”

Murphy came from humble roots in Detroit and Logan, W.Va., at one point living in his car. Saying that he learned how to sing in the shower, music has been a cornerstone of his life, so Murphy decided in November 2010 to try out for America’s Got Talent. He was the last person to audition. He blew the audience and judges away with is version of “Under My Skin.”

Being on America’s Got Talent was a fascinating experience for Murphy. Describing it as “one big good time,” he said he was amazed by everything that happened behind the scenes and knew he was up against some very talented people.

“[Winning was] kind of a bitter sweet moment. You pull for the kids,” he said of his younger and talented competition. “I was also shocked. I never expected to win. I just thought I would get to the top 10 or top four.”

Murphy did not have any downtime after he was crowned the 2011 winner of America’s Got Talent. The day after he won, he went to California then Texas. Recording That’s Life took five days. Then there were three days of photo and video shoots.

“We grinded it out,” he said.

Since then, Murphy’s been busy plane-hopping from city to city all over the country and writing his next album, which will have original songs and a few other classics fans asked him to sing. A gospel and a Christmas album are also planned for the future. Release dates have not yet been finalized.

“My schedule’s been hectic. I’ve been really busy, but I’m never complaining about that,” Murphy said. “I went from washing cars to winning a million dollars. It’s just a big whirlwind for my life. I feel blessed and very thankful.”

IF YOU GO

What: Landau Eugene Murphy Jr. Concert

When: 3 p.m., 7 p.m., Monday

Where: Magnolia Hall, Sun City

Tickets: $22 and available at Lifestyle Services in Pinckney Hall or call 705-4027 for information.

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